Will Installing Trailer Hitch on 2020 Ford Escape Void Vehicle Warranty

Question:

do installing a trailer hitch affect my warranty ford escape 2020.

asked by: Mauril L

Expert Reply:

When you install an aftermarket part on your vehicle like a trailer hitch in this case on your 2020 Ford Escape with the Curt # e89YR, you are protected by the Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act.

This act states, in part, that unless the installation and the part caused a problem then the warranty cannot be voided.

expert reply by: Jameson C

John N.

7/7/2020

In my case, the manufacturer doesn't list a tow limit, and does offer a hitch as an option.

John N.

7/2/2020

I still have a concern. It is my understanding that if an aftermarket installation negatively affected the vehicle, the warranty could be voided. In the case of a trailer hitch, the manufacturer can argue that towing a trailer added undue stress on the entire drive train, and caused the hypothetical failure. That argument might also be applicable to the suspension.

Chris R.

7/7/2020

I definitely understand your concern here. In your hypothetical though, it wouldn't be the hitch installation that voided the warranty, but towing a trailer. And the manufacturer wouldn't void any warranty due to towing as long as what you're pulling is within the vehicle's limits (which will be listed in the owner's manual). If your vehicle lists a 3,500 pound towing capacity and you damaged the suspension pulling a 5,000 pound trailer - then you'd be in trouble. But that's not what the Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act protects you from.